Bougainvillea ‘Barbara Karst’ is a vigorous, evergreen climber that drenches your garden in bold magenta-red colour. Its dark green, glossy leaves form the perfect backdrop for masses of luminous bracts that bloom from spring right through to late autumn — often continuing into winter in mild coastal areas. The small, pure-white flowers are strikingly bright against the bracts, creating an unforgettable show of tropical vibrancy.
Why You’ll Love It:
• Produces vibrant crimson-red bracts for an exceptionally long flowering season
• Colour stays brightest in full sun — light shade will soften tones to reddish-blue
• Exceptionally heat- and drought-tolerant once established
• Hardy and reliable — one of the toughest bougainvillea cultivars
• Perfect for coastal gardens, pergolas, fences, and sunny walls
Planting & Care:
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil to bring out the best colour. Water deeply but infrequently once established — too much water or shade reduces flowering. Feed every 6–8 weeks with a flowering shrub fertiliser during the growing season. Trim lightly after flushes of bloom to keep it neat and encourage new growth. Avoid heavy winter watering.
Cape Garden Tip:
For the brightest colour, give it sunshine and restraint — bougainvilleas bloom best when slightly stressed. Perfect for Cape Town’s coastal gardens, where it thrives in summer heat and copes well with winter rain. Pair with Lampranthus for a carpet of matching brilliance or use Tree & Shrub Fertiliser to keep growth strong and flowering prolific.
| Botanical Name |
Bougainvillea 'Barbara Karst'
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Growth Expectancy
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4m H x 2m W
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Position
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Sun
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| Water Smart |
Yes |
| Indigenous |
No |